What does a guy like me do when he retires? Fair question. Almost my whole life has been dedicated to Christian ministry. I attended Northwest College to get a degree with a major in Biblical Literature and a minor in Missions--I also took extra courses to qualify for a Christian Education certification.
So, it makes sense to go into the ministry. Well, that and the fact that I've sensed the calling since I was 12 and God has been faithful. I didn't shine so brightly at times, but our God is always glorious. His grace, mercy, patience, and never ending love trumps our self-imposed momentary afflictions.
Starting in 1974, I pastored in three US churches, and spent 10 years in foreign missions. Our assignment was to teach at Italian Bible Institute and I did that and much more. At the end of 40 years of full-time ministry, I felt the leading of the Lord to retire and move to the desert, which we did. We've been here for 3 years so far.
Now, as an old retired guy, I follow gifts, talents, and the leading of the Lord God Almighty. Here's how it breaks down:
- I write, as I have been doing for about the past 19 years. Only now I get to do it as much (or as little) as I want. I vote for much time spent in writing. At this post, I have written and seen published a total of 10 fiction and non-fiction books. Way more to follow.
- I teach the Bible every Tuesday evening at the Pasco Adult & Teen Challenge center. The young men are hungry for the Word and make each study a delight.
- I preach on a rotation at the local Union Gospel Mission and I preach on a rotation on Sunday evenings at Faith Assembly. I also do emergency preaching when local churches need help.
- I am an Elder for the NWMN, which means I'm kind of a chaplain, providing aid and assistance for ministers and their families. This helps answer the question: "Who ministers to the ministers?"
- I enjoy less stress and responsibility. At the drop of a hat I get to leave everything for a few days and do family and personal things. I am physically healthy--as of the last physical exam--and I strive to keep spiritually well, too.
God willing, I will keep walking through whatever reasonable "door" that might open. I will be free to say "yes" and I will be free to say "no." In all ways, however, I will seek to live so that God is glorified.